WITH SIX YOU GET FLASHBACK: TAKING ME BACK TO THE EVERGREEN STATE WITH MILBRANDT VINEYARDS

Our good friend and Heidelberg rep Kymber came by with Heather Price, brand manager for Milbrandt Vineyards from Washington State:

Milbrandt Vineyards Pinot Gris Traditions 2008. Grade=Outstanding. Lots of melon and pear shine in this light-bodied presentation of Alsatian-inspired PG. Nice bit of spices, peaches and fig in there as well.

Milbrandt Vineyards Chardonnay Traditions 2007. Grade=Average. Some tropical fruit aromas and flavors intermingling with some creamy vanilla, maple candy and coconut pie. I just get the feeling that the fruit is slowly making its way toward the door, and is leaving the party without any goodbyes.

Milbrandt Vineyards Riesling Traditions 2007. Grade=Outstanding+. Excellent example of why Riesling is King in Washington. Honeyed peaches, Clementine zest, Rainier cherries and orange blossoms abound in this semi-dry white wine.

Milbrandt Vineyards Rosé Traditions 2008. Grade=Outstanding. Tasty little saigneé of Syrah, this light-bodied pink accents a nice balance of wild strawberries, red raspberries and dragonfruit notes. A hint of spice and some mineral undertones add complexity.

Milbrandt Vineyards Merlot Traditions 2007. Grade=Outstanding. Juicy dark plums are playing around with red cherries, fresh blueberries, a dash of mocha, caramel and some extroverted baking spices in an all-out good time at the playground that is your palate. Supple, generous and full of joy.

Milbrandt Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Traditions 2007. Grade=Outstanding. Darker and richer than its sibling, there are playful notes of black currants, loganberries, blackberry jam, mocha espresso, milk chocolate, some spicy cedar and toasty oak tones.